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A retired Tennessee firefighter died Friday after battling COVID-19.
Capt. James L. Parks, 47, had been with the Pleasant View Volunteer Fire Department in both volunteer and full-time positions for 15 years, joining in 2004, the department said in an online update. He was "a trusted responder, trainer, mentor, and friend that always rose to the occasion."
"His presence alone increased our capability and our character, as he was all in for the community and our membership," the department said. "His passion and personality allowed him to rise through the ranks of the PVVFD, receiving promotions to Lieutenant and Captain during his tenure."
Parks worked for the Tennessee Department of Transportation as a highway incident response operator. He also was a contract firefighter in Iraq and Afghanistan, according to the department.
A celebration of life will be held for Parks, who wished to be cremated. Arrangements, however, have not been made.
A GoFundMe account has been opened for anyone wishing to help support Capt. Parks' family.
